Say This Not That

A Guide to Inclusive Language

To have a truly inclusive culture, it's important for companies and individuals to use language that is inclusive of all persons. What you may not realize is that a lot of everyday, commonplace phrases are actually rooted in discrimination and oppression. As such, it's important that we all be mindful of the ways in which we refer to and describe others.

Some general rules of inclusive language include:

People-first language

Use people-first language (i.e. person with a disability vs. disabled or person of color vs. colored) unless the person indicates another preference.

gender inclusive pronouns

Never assume a person’s gender identity based on their name or their appearance – if you don’t know, use gender inclusive pronouns or ask for their pronouns

everyone vs. ladies & gentlemen

Use gender inclusive language when speaking in generalities or about groups of people that you do not know the individual pronouns of (i.e. everyone vs. ladies and gentlemen and they/them/theirs vs. he/him/his and she/her/hers).

Microlearning

Learn more about inclusive language with our series of short microvideos.

Inclusive Language & Technology with Kurt Merriweather, Head of Inclusive Innovation & Partnerships, The Diversity Movement

Image of Kurt from the video with a play symbol over the thumbnail.

10 Inclusive Language Blunders and How to Correct Them, with Kaela Kovach-Galton, Project Strategist, The Diversity Movement

Image of Kaela from the video with a play symbol over the thumbnail.

The Importance of Inclusive Language with Jackie Ferguson, Director of Programming, The Diversity Movement

Image of Jackie from the video with a play symbol over the thumbnail.

Say This, Not That White Paper

Ready to dive even further into inclusive language? Download our guide on what phrases to steer clear of and alternatives to get your point across.

Say This, Not That Download

Screenshot of the cover page of the Say This, Not That white paper.